Havens Hospices are delighted to be working with Wild in Art to deliver an extraordinary free public art trail and cultural event in Southend-on-Sea this summer.
This exciting initiative aims to unite businesses, schools and community groups, creative artists, and the media to raise vital funds for the local hospice charity whilst making art accessible to anyone living in or visiting the town.
Inspired by the ‘Boxing Hares’ sculpture at their Little Havens Hospice, the charity has commissioned 30 hare sculptures for their ‘Hares About Town’ project. Businesses, educational establishments, groups and individuals have been invited to sponsor a sculpture, with local artists stepping up to create a unique design and personality for each Hare.
The finished hares will be displayed throughout the streets, parks, and public areas around Southend for a 10 week period from 1st July 2021. These beautifully decorated sculptures, standing at two metres high, will showcase the wealth of artistic talent in the area, whilst positively contributing to the economic, social, and cultural life of the town.
In September, each hare will then be auctioned to raise vital funds to support Havens Hospices.
Established for 36 years, Havens Hospices incorporates Fair Havens Hospice, Little Havens Hospice and The J’s Hospice. The charity provides palliative nursing and supportive care to adults and children living with complex or incurable conditions across Essex. This specialised care is provided free of charge thanks to the kindness and generosity of the community – for as long as it is needed – either in the patient’s home or in their hospices.
One of the first local businesses to sponsor a hare was IT service provider Utilize plc, who have been supporting Havens Hospices as one of their affiliated charities for over six years. The technology firm commissioned artist Mik Richardson to create the artwork for a cyber inspired hare.
The design reflects the company’s brand colours and graffiti themed wall – ‘Always Moving Forward’ – which is a centrepiece at their Basildon office. Utilize staff, who are still deciding on a name for the hare, will be volunteering at this summer’s event in Southend-on-Sea.
